πŸ“… Big Changes Coming: Central Piedmont Switches to Microsoft 365! πŸ“…

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As you know, our campus will be moving from Google Suite to Microsoft 365 (M365) on May 13. This means big changes in how you’ll access your emails and store your files, and here are some of the things you need to know:

Student on a Mac Book in front of a yellow wall in Parr Center library

What’s Changing?

  • πŸ“§ Email: Say goodbye to Gmail. All email services will now be handled through Outlook, accessible through the Office homepage.
  • πŸ“ File Storage: Google Drive is out, and OneDrive is in. You’ll store all your files on Microsoft’s cloud service.

Important Dates

  • Migration Starts: At about 5 p.m. on Fri., May 10
  • Migration Ends: By Sun., May 12
  • πŸ“ Note: During this period, expect that both Google and M365 services will be unavailable.

Tasks to Complete by May 10

  • πŸ“Έ Save Your Photos: Make sure to download and save any photos you want to keep using these steps.

Dos and Don’ts

  • βœ… Do read all emails about the migration to keep yourself updated.
  • βœ… Do visit the Migration to Microsoft 365 website for FAQs, a detailed timeline, and a comparison guide.
  • βœ… Do explore the new services and features available on M365.
  • ❌ Don’t use M365 services or tools over the migration weekend (May 10-12).

After the Migration

  • 🌟 Access to New Services: Starting May 13, dive into all the services, features, and applications M365 has to offer at Central Piedmont.
  • πŸ“‘ Read-Only Google Files: Your Google files will still be available in a read-only format until September 15, so you can view but not edit them.

Need Assistance?

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we transition to a more integrated and feature-rich environment with Microsoft 365.Β Thank you for staying informed and prepared as we make this exciting transition! πŸš€

πŸŽ“ Celebrate Central Piedmont Graduates at Bojangles Coliseum! πŸŽ“

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Central Piedmont Community College graduates, facing the stage during commencement at Bojangles ColiseumGet ready to cheer on the hardworking graduates of Central Piedmont as they celebrate a significant milestone in their lives. We invite you to be part of this momentous occasion, celebrating the achievements of your classmates and friends.

Event Details

  • Location: Bojangles Coliseum
  • Date: Thurs., May 9, 2024
  • Times: Ceremonies at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Important Notes:

Can’t Join Us In Person?

No worries! Whether you’re near or far, you can still be part of the excitement. We willCentral Piedmont graduate in her cap and gown, posing for the camera with an arm on a railingΒ be livestreaming both ceremonies on YouTube at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tune in to celebrate together, no matter where you are!

πŸ‘ Let’s Applaud Our Graduates: This is more than just a ceremonyβ€”it’s a celebration of dedication, perseverance, and success. Your presence, whether in person or online, means the world to our graduates and the Central Piedmont community. See you there! 🌟

πŸ” Uncover Your Financial Aid Potential at FAFSA Night πŸ’Ό

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logo

πŸ“š Overcome financial barriers to your education with expert guidance from CentralΒ Piedmont at FAFSA Night. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is key to accessing federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.

What To Expect: A hands-on workshop focused on the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application.
Assistance Available For: State residency, college application, and creating your Federal Student Aid ID.
πŸ—“ Date: Wed., May 29, 2024
πŸ“ Location: Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
🀝 Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available.
πŸš€ Secure Your Spot: Registration is required.

Take control of your educational financing by attending this essential workshop. Don’tΒ miss out on the chance to get personalized help with your FAFSA application to support your college journey. Join us and pave the way to your academic and financial success!

🌟 Develop Financial Skills with Four-Day Course at Central Piedmont 🌟

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Are you ready to empower your financial future? Join us for this summer’s “Money Smart” course, designed to boost your financial literacy and skills. πŸ’΅

Professor teaching a group of attentive students

🏫 Course: Money Smart – Learning Financial Skills
πŸ—“οΈ Dates: Mon., June 24 – Thurs., June 27, 2024
πŸ•˜ Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (1-hour lunch break)
πŸ“ Location: Central Campus, Zeiss Building, Room 1114
πŸ’΅ Tuition: $240 + $12.00 parking fee

πŸ“š Course Outline:

Day 1: Earning, Spending, and Borrowing

  • Introduction to financial basics, tax strategies for earners and contractors.
  • Overview of budgeting strategies, inflation, financial modeling, and credit building.
  • Discussion on financial management technology and real estate transactions.

Day 2: Saving and Investing

  • Exploration of saving and investment concepts, vehicle pros/cons, and account types.
  • Understanding of money movement methods and time-value of money.
  • Exploration of asset classes, investment vehicles, and asset allocation.

Day 3: Investment Management and Portfolio Construction

Ruth G. Shaw Scholar, Christelle Valentin, posing on campus

  • Introduction to public equities, stock analysis, and fixed income.
  • Overview of commodities, alternative assets, and portfolio construction.
  • Discussion of portfolio risks and investment management strategies.

Day 4: Financial Planning, Retirement Planning, and Planning for Risks, Death,Β and Taxes

  • Prioritization of financial needs at different life stages and insurance considerations.
  • Introduction to retirement planning, estate planning, and special tax situations.
  • Case studies covering a range of personal financial scenarios.

🎯 Learner Outcomes:

  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of personal financial management strategies from basic to intermediate levels.
  • Apply knowledge to real-world financial scenarios through interactive case studies.

πŸ‘©β€πŸ« Method of Instruction: Lecture, group work, discussions, and case studies. πŸ“ Evaluation: Based on participation in discussions, group work, and engagement in case studies.

πŸ“Œ Enroll Now:Β Review full class details and enroll now on our website.

This four-day course is an investment in your future, designed to transform your approach to personal finance. Join us and step confidently into your financial future!

πŸ› οΈ Central Piedmont Celebrates First Youth Apprenticeship Week

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Central Piedmont is proud to kick off our inaugural Youth Apprenticeship Week from May 5- 11. Youth Apprenticeship Week is a nationwide initiative celebrating the unique benefits and immense value of registered apprenticeship programs for young individuals aged 16 – 24.

Allstate apprenticeship students in front of All State logo

πŸ“š Why Apprenticeships?

  • Apprenticeships are more than just jobs; they combine paid work with structured training.
  • Apprentices earn a journeyman card from the Department of Labor, a portable credential valid across the United States.
  • Participants gain unparalleled hands-on industry experience, setting them apart from their peers.

🀝 Central Piedmont’s Role:

Since 1995, Central Piedmont has played a crucial role in educating youth apprentices. Our journey began with the Apprenticeship 2000 program, and today, we partner with 22 employers providing education for 136 current apprentices in various fields.

πŸŽ“ Apprenticeship Programs and Stats:

  • Current Apprentices: 136 youths aged 16-24
  • Employer Partners: 15 providing diverse opportunities
  • Fields of Study: Automotive, CNC Machining, Diesel Technology, Early Child Education, Mechatronics, Electrical Systems, HVAC, and Welding.

πŸ“– Learn More:

  • Visit the WorkPlace Learning page for detailed information about our apprenticeship opportunities and other youth programs.

πŸ† TRIO Student Support Services Hosts First Annual End of the Year & Awards Banquet

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On Thurs., Apr. 25, 2024, TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) held their inaugural End of the Year & Awards Banquet at the Greenway Restaurant, nestled within the Philip L. Van Every Culinary Arts Center.

Candid photo of people during the awards banquet, with attention directed to the front of the room

Key Highlights:

  • Guest Speaker: Dr. Jonathan N. Livingston, Interim Chair & Professor of Psychology at North Carolina Central University, and a distinguished alum of Central Piedmont and TRIO SSS, graced the event with his insightful words.
  • Student Reflections: Shania Johnson & Nahomie Musangusangu ’23 shared their reflections on their TRIO SSS journey.

Award Criteria:

Participants were lauded for their exceptional efforts, resilience, academic excellence, and program completion (Spring 2024 graduates). The prestigious TRIO Alumni Achievement Award was bestowed upon a Central Piedmont staff member and alum of TRIO SSS, recognizing their outstanding personal and professional accomplishments. πŸŽ“ Additionally, awards were granted to students achieving a GPA between 3.0 to 3.9, as well as campus partners pivotal in supporting the staff to meet participants’ needs.

πŸŒŸπŸŽ‰ Award Recipients Include:

  • TRIO Rising Stars: Sabina Darjee and Brian Luong
  • TRIO Shining Star: Edward Freeman
  • TRIO Scholars of Distinction (Participants with a 4.0 Cumulative GPA): Johana Castro-Castro and Taylor Williams
  • Certificate of Completion (Spring 2024 Graduates): Valleska Chay, Nikale Davis, Flavina Derrick, Shania Johnson, Shakiyla Pickens, and Maria Flores Malagon
  • TRIO Alumni Achievement: Mary Davis, Financial Aid
  • Campus Partner: Grants Performance & Development Office

The evening was a testament to the dedication and achievements of the TRIO SSS community, marking a memorable conclusion to the academic year. Congratulations!

πŸ“š Central Piedmont Campus Stores Announce Summer Hours

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Students shopping at campus store

As the semester wraps up and the summer break approaches, Central Piedmont Campus Stores are adjusting their hours to accommodate students’ needs. Whether you’re stocking up on textbooks for summer classes or looking for some college swag, here’s what you need to know about the summer hours across all campuses:

  • πŸ“ Location: Central, Cato, and Levine Campuses
  • β˜€οΈ Summer Schedule:
    • May 10 – July 26
    • Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    • Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Campus stores will continue to provide coffee, drinks, snacks, and food options. Regular campus bookstore hours will resume on July 26.

🌿 Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month 🌿

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Counselor and student talking at a table

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of mental well-being. Central Piedmont is committed to supporting our students’ mental health through various counseling services designed to foster academic success, personal growth, and emotional resilience.

Available Counseling Services:

  • 🏫 In-Person Counseling: Available across all campuses to help you with mental and emotional health concerns.
  • πŸ–₯️ Remote Therapy Sessions: Offering video appointments for flexible scheduling and easier access. Often, these can be scheduled sooner due to the high demand for specific time slots.
  • πŸ“… Appointments: You can schedule virtual, phone, or in-person sessions on the counselor’s assigned campus.

When to See a Counselor:

  • Relationship issues
  • Stress management and coping skills
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Grief and loss
  • Life balance and self-care
  • Goal-setting
  • Substance use
  • Or anything else causing you worry or distress

Contacting a Counselor:

  • πŸ‘₯ Our diverse staff are trained in various specializations. When scheduling, communicate any preferences you might have.
  • βœ‰οΈ Complete the intake form on our website, and a counselor will contact you to arrange a session.
  • πŸ“ž For general inquiries, call 704-330-6420 or send an email.

🌟 Highlight Event: Counseling on the Green 🌟 On Apr. 17, the Central Campus Quad was bustling with the “Counseling on the Green” event, which saw over 500 students participate. This event featured:

Student receives a chair massage during Counseling on the Green event

  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Chair massages by our Massage Therapy program
  • Therapy dogs
  • Low-impact yoga
  • “Theater with a Therapist”
  • “Kick Away Your Fears”
  • Gratitude letters

πŸ™Œ Special Thanks to Our Contributors:

  • Massage Therapy Program: Delivered 112 relaxing chair massages.
  • Sondra Hines Yates (NextGen Program): Led enriching yoga sessions.
  • Therapy Dogs International: Provided comfort with their canine volunteers.
  • Human Services Club: Added a refreshing twist with mocktails and affirmations.
  • Student Engagement: Crucial in planning and supporting the event.Counseling on the Green yoga with students

πŸ’‘ Remember: Mental health is as important as physical health. Utilize our services to improve your well-being and academic performance. Let’s make mental health a priority this May and beyond! 🌈

For more details on upcoming workshops and activities, visit our counseling services page!

Tuition Payment Plan

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tuition payment planCentral Piedmont Community College provides a tuition payment plan designed to ease students’ financial burden by allowing them to pay tuition and fees over time. This plan is an excellent option for students looking to manage their education expenses more effectively.

Key Highlights:

  • Eligibility: Available for students with at least $200 in tuition and fees.
  • Benefits: No interest, finance charges, or credit checks. Enrolment ensures your courses will not be dropped.
  • Enrollment Fee: A non-refundable fee applies each semester.
  • Payment: Automatic monthly drafts without the need to make payments through MyCollege.

Enrollment Information:
You’ll need to provide payment details and contact information upon enrolling. Should any changes arise in your status, such as class adjustments or receiving financial aid, contact Central Piedmont promptly to update your plan.

Summer 2024 Schedule:

Register for Classes Between Sign Up By Down Payment (upon sign up) When Your Automatic Payments will be Drafted
April 5β€”May 6 Monday, May 6, 2024, at 10 p.m. 33% + $30Β enrollment fee June 5 and July 5
May 7β€”May 19 Sunday, May 19, 2024, at 10 p.m. 33% + $30Β enrollment fee June 5 and July 5
May 20β€”May 21 Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 10 p.m. 33% + $30Β enrollment fee June 5 and July 5

Depending on your registration date, initial payments include a down payment plus an enrollment fee, with subsequent drafts.

For detailed information on the tuition payment plan, including how to enroll and the complete list of requirements, visitΒ Central Piedmont’s Tuition Payment Plan. This initiative is part of Central Piedmont’s commitment to making education accessible to all students by offering manageable payment solutions.

πŸŽ‚ Free Cake Tasting on May 6

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Join us for a delightful display of culinary artistry at the Baking and Pastry Arts student cake showcase. Here’s what you need to know:

  • πŸ“… Date: Mon., May 6
  • Baking and Pastry Arts student making a cakeπŸ“ Location: Harris I, Student Life
  • πŸŽ‚ Showcase Time: 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Cake viewing)
  • 🍴 Tasting Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Cake tasting)

Each talented student has meticulously crafted and designed their own three-tier wedding cake, showcasing their skills and creativity.

🌟 Why Attend? It’s the perfect way to take a break, indulge in some delicious cake, support our students, and learn more about the Baking and Pastry Arts program. Your encouragement means the world to our aspiring pastry chefs!

Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of Central Piedmont’s finest budding pastry chefs! πŸŽ“πŸ‘©β€πŸ³

🌟 Central Piedmont Volunteers Shine at Rise Against Hunger Event! 🌟

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Rise Against Hunger LogoCentral Piedmont’s Mentoring/Coaching and Student Engagement offices are sending out a massive thank you to everyone who participated in the Rise Against Hunger event last Thu., Apr. 25, at the Central Campus. Here’s a quick recap of the incredible impact you made:

  • πŸ“¦ Meals Packed: A whopping 10,152 meals were assembled and packed.
  • πŸ‘« Volunteers: Over 60 wonderful volunteers, including staff and students, joined forces.
  • 🌍 Global Impact: Your efforts support Rise Against Hunger’s mission to eradicate hunger worldwide by distributing nutritious meals.

We’re immensely proud of our Central Piedmont community for showing a commitment to giving back. Together, we are making a difference in countless lives.

πŸ‘€ Missed the event? Check out our highlight video.

Again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your generosity and spirit exemplify what it means to be part of Central Piedmont. πŸ’™

πŸš’ Stage to Safety: Rachael Helms’ Fire Protection Journey

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πŸ“ Program: Fire Protection
πŸŽ“ Previous Education: B.A. in Exercise Science, UNC CharlotteRachael Helms headshot in fire suit and helmet

At 38, Rachael Helms has made a remarkable transition from a performing arts career to pursuing a Fire Protection degree at Central Piedmont. Her unique interest in the psychological aspects of disaster response drew her to our standout Fire and Social Behavior class, blending her passions for public safety and disaster psychology.

🀸 Background in Performing Arts:

  • Formerly a gymnast, cheerleader, and aerial artist, including circus arts.
  • Rachael’s diverse background has seamlessly translated into the physical prowess necessary for demanding emergency services.

πŸš’ From Arts to Emergency Services:

Rachael’s career pivot is not just a change in profession but a reinvention of her skill set to meet the rigorous demands of fire service. “If you need someone to scale a wall, suspend like Spider-Man for a high-angle rescue, or fit into small spaces, I’m your girl,” Rachael proudly claims.

πŸ›οΈ Academic and Career Ambitions:

  • Rachael values the real-world experience her professors bring, merging technical knowledge with critical social insights.
  • She aims to excel as a Fire Engineer, using her skills to impact and protect the community significantly.

✨ Rachael’s Message to Fellow Students:

“Set lofty goals, surround yourself with knowledgeable peers, and dive into learning experiences,” she advises. Rachael embodies the spirit of continuous learning and adaptability, turning personal strengths into professional excellence.

Rachael’s story is a testament to the diverse pathways at Central Piedmont and the profound personal and professional growth that comes with pursuing one’s passions.

πŸŽ“ Central Piedmont May Graduation Commencement Details

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Graduates at commencement, cheeringCentral Piedmont is thrilled to honor our graduates’ hard work and achievements as they walk across the stage to commemorate this momentous milestone. We hope you will join us in celebrating your classmates and friends! πŸŽ‰

πŸ“ Location: Bojangles Coliseum
πŸ—“οΈ Date: Thurs., May 9, 2024
⏰ Times: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

πŸ‘œ Important Notes:

πŸŽ₯ Livestreaming: Can’t make it in person? Join us via YouTube, where we’ll be livestreaming the festivities at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Inspiring Journey of Irenge Dekandol

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Irenge DekandolFrom fleeing his home in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2014 to becoming a standout student in Charlotte, Irenge Dekandol’s story is nothing short of inspiring. Here’s a glimpse into his journey at Central Piedmont Community College:

🌍 A New Start in the U.S.

  • Through the assistance of the United Nations Refugee Agency and the Carolina Refugee Resettlement Agency, Irenge found a new home in Charlotte.
  • He arrived hoping to continue his education, which once seemed impossible while living as a refugee in Kenya.

πŸŽ“ Embracing Education

  • Irenge quickly enrolled in Central Piedmont’s free English as a Second Language (ESL) program.
  • Irenge’s dedication shone through as he balanced his ESL classes on Tuesday and Thursday with his General Education Diploma (GED) prep on Monday and Wednesday.

πŸ… Looking Forward

  • With his GED now complete, Irenge is unlocking new opportunities for employment.
  • He is pursuing an associate degree in Information Technology and is determined to build a successful career and a new life in the U.S.

🌟 A Message of Hope

  • “It’s not easy, but I am trying my best. If I can do it, anyone can,” says Irenge, motivated to forge a path filled with perseverance and hope.

Irenge’s journey at Central Piedmont is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. His story highlights the transformative power of education and the profound impact of community support. Keep soaring, Irenge! πŸš€πŸŽ“

🌐 Students Simulate Global Governance at Model UN Conference

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Four students represented Central Piedmont at the prestigious National Model United Nations Conference in New York, joining nearly 2,000 participants from over 100 countries. This event underscored the essence of global citizenship as our delegation represented Liechtenstein, engaging deeply in committees like the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) and General Assembly 3rd committees.

Students at Model UN conference

🌍 Global Debates and Resolutions:

  • Topics included sustainability in textile industries, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, children’s rights in conflict zones, and preventing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • Over 30 hours of intense deliberation and resolution drafting provided hands-on experience in global governance.

πŸ™οΈ Cultural Immersion in New York City:

  • The trip featured cultural explorations, including walks through Central Park, visits to Times Square, Broadway shows 🎭, diverse dining experiences, subway rides, and tours of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
  • Faculty Advisor Carla Cole and Club President Pragya Pandya even appeared live on the Today Show! πŸŽ₯

🀝 Skills and Reflections from Students:

  • Students reported enhanced skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and cultural appreciation.
  • Reflections highlighted personal growth in speaking, writing, and applying academic knowledge in economics, international relations, sociology, and political science.

We are immensely proud of our students’ achievements and their development into poised global citizens. A heartfelt thank you goes to Student Engagement, Student Government, Institutional Advancement, and Academic Affairs for their support, with special mentions to Biology faculty Lauren Jackson and Nickolas Davros and Central Piedmont librarians for aiding our students’ research on pivotal global issues. πŸ‘

CATS Launches Transit Pass Design Contest 🎨

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The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is thrilled to announce the kickoff of its annual Transit Pass Design Contest, inviting talented residents from North and South Carolina to unleash their creativity! This year’s theme: Safe Travels! 🚌

πŸ“… Important Dates and Deadlines:

  • Entries are due to CATS by Wed., May 22, at 5 p.m.
  • Winners will be notified by June 15.

πŸ† Prizes Await:

  • Three lucky winners will see their artwork featured on the Local, Express, and Express Plus passes for the entire 2025 calendar year.
  • Winners will also snag a monthly transit pass of their choice!
  • Prizes include:
    • First Place: $500
    • Second Place: $250
    • Third Place: $100Artwork on a CATS bus stop

πŸ” Judging Criteria: Entries will be scrutinized by a panel composed of transit staff members, city officials, and esteemed local art professionals. They’ll be evaluating submissions based on the following:

  • Does the design effectively convey the theme and promote multi-modal transportation in Charlotte?
  • Is the design visually appealing and well-composed?
  • Does the design refrain from incorporating text?

πŸ”— How to Enter:

  • Intrigued? Eager participants can learn more about the contest, download an application, and peruse technical guidelines and rules at CATS official website.

πŸ“§ Need Assistance? The City of Charlotte ensures equal opportunity and accessibility for all. If you require reasonable accommodation or translation services (free of charge), feel free to reach out via email at telltransit@charlottenc.gov or call 704-336-7433.

Get those creative juices flowing, and let’s make transit in Charlotte even more vibrant and inviting! πŸŽ‰

πŸŽ‰πŸŽ“ Congrats Grads! Career Services is here to help you with your next steps

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Two graduates in a sea of graduates, smiling at the camera

Attention, Central Piedmont graduates! Did you know that your journey with Career Services doesn’t end at graduation? As you embark on your career path, you can continue to benefit from the invaluable resources offered by Career Services.

πŸ’Ό Explore Career Opportunities:

🀝 Tap into Resources:

  • Utilize Handshake, a platform connecting you with job opportunities and career counselors. Maintain access to your Handshake account by updating your primary email to your personal email address. Learn more about retaining access using these guidelines.

πŸ’¬ Sharpen Your Interview Skills:

  • Dive into Big Interview to master interview techniques and conquer any existing fears. Create your alumni account using your personal email address and the login code: cpcc63.

πŸ“§ Need Assistance? For any inquiries or further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Career Services at career.services@cpcc.edu or 704-330-6551.

Your journey toward a fulfilling career doesn’t have to be navigated alone. Take advantage of these resources and let Career Services continue to support you in achieving your professional goals! πŸš€

🐾 Pawsitive Finals: Pet Therapy

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Looking to escape the whirlwind of finals? Seek solace and comfort in the company of our furry friends at the upcoming pet therapy session, brought to you by the Health Sciences.

Here’s what you need to know:Students gathered around a dog, petting it

  • πŸ“… Date: Tues., Apr. 30th, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • πŸ“ Location: Central Campus, North Quad
  • 🌿 What to Expect:
    • Experience a rejuvenating session designed to calm your mind and lift your spirits.
    • Interact with our adorable therapy pets for a dose of peace and joy amidst the stress of finals.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to unwind and recharge! Mark your calendars and join us for a blissful break from the chaos of finals.Β 

Central Piedmont Students Participate in Leadership Conference

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A dozen Central Piedmont students participated in the North Carolina Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference from April 11-13 and brought home a handful of awards.Β 

Β The students participated in 20 competitive events and eight leadership seminars over the three days. Four students finished in first place in their respective events – Akhilshyam Bollepally, Jose Esquit, Erick Garcia, and Daniel Ramirez.Β 

Β Overall, eight students qualified to attend the National Leadership Conference, and one student, Genchen Hang, qualified in three different events. In addition to Hang and the first-place finishers, other students who qualified include Bella Calderon, Sam Faught, and Johnny Smith.Group of students at conference

Β Joining that group as participants at the state conference were Caleb Carr, Tomo Kaneko, Stephane Monichon, and Lina Rodriguez.Β 

Β The National Leadership Conference takesΒ place June 24-27 in Orlando.Β 

Β FBLA helps students:Β 

  • Develop competent business leadership skills.Β 
  • Strengthen the confidence of students in themselves and their work.Β 
  • Create more interest in and understanding of American business enterprise.Β 
  • Develop character, prepare for useful citizenship, and foster patriotism.Β 
  • Facilitate the transition from school to work.Β 

Β Central Piedmont students in FBLA have the opportunity to meet with local business leaders in areas of finance and business as part of the program, as well as work closely with Career Services. In addition to the competitions, FBLA students also participate in community service projects.Β 

Student Story: Monisha Pirela

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Monisha PirelaMonisha Pirela, a 34-year-old Central Piedmont Community College student from New Bern, NC, is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree. She chose Central Piedmont for its proximity, easing her commute and allowing her to balance school with other commitments. πŸ›£οΈ Monisha actively participates in campus life, serving on the Student Equity Council, NC Global Scholars of Distinction, and Phi Theta Kappa. She is also the recipient of several scholarships, including the 2023 Charlotte Pride Champion of Pride, Benjamin A. Gilman, Truist Honors, and Levine Scholarship.

Her academic focus combines architecture with political science, aiming to impact societal structures locally and globally. Monisha aspires to work for the U.S. State Department and consult on international sustainable housing projects. Central Piedmont has played an important role in her education, particularly through possibilities such as studying abroad, which Monisha did not think was an option for non-traditional community college students. “Thanks to the unwavering support of the Global Learning Department, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to study abroad at the University of Roehampton in London this year,” she said.

Additionally, Monisha is a recognized poet and spoken word artist πŸ—£οΈ and interns with the U.S. Department of State, enhancing her understanding of cultural diplomacy. Recently, she was named a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship and has been accepted to UNC Charlotte’s Honors Art+Architecture program. Monisha’s journey reflects her dedication to education and commitment to making a meaningful societal impact.πŸ†